If you’re having a Getting Help bad trip… Self-help tools: Go to a safe environment (if you’re not already www.heretohelp.bc.ca in one) and play calming music. www.carbc.ca Surrender to the experience (rather than trying Saf er to control it). Alcohol and Drug Information and Try to meditate or relax. Referral Service: Tripping The only way to guarantee you won’t have a bad 1-800-663-1441 (BC) trip is to not use hallucinogens. magic mushrooms, LSD, 604-660-9382 (Greater Vancouver) and other hallucinogens If someone else is having a bad trip… Take them to a calm, safe environment. Reassure them that you’re their friend and that in time the experience will pass. Help them meditate or relax.
Reduce your risk of bad trips (scary and stressful experiences), injuries from falls or accidents, and mental health problems
© 2012 Here to Help
Here to Help is a project of the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information. This brochure was developed by the Centre for Addictions Research of BC, a member of the BC Partners. When you’re tripping... Think about NOT using You and safer Be sure you’re in the right frame of hallucinogens if... Using hallucinogens can be fun, spiritual or mind you or a family member have a history educational if you embrace the experience. It can tripping of mental health problems Hallucinating also be scary, especially if you try to control rather Using hallucinogens is always risky can trigger symptoms of a mental health than “roll with it.” because they are illegal drugs. You can problem. never know for sure what you’re buying or Avoid bad experiences Steer clear of climbing you’re living with a heart condition using. There are other risks too. Some are up on things, looking in the mirror, or having sex Many hallucinogens affect blood pressure and related to how hallucinogens affect your with anyone other than a comfortable, familiar heart rate. partner. These activities can have unpleasant or mind and body. Others are related to your you’re experiencing symptoms of unexpected results. relationships with people. Here are some a mental health problem This includes ways you can reduce those risks. Stick to one substance at a time Using depression or anxiety. Hallucinogens may cannabis and alcohol while tripping can change your interact with mental health medications. experience in unpredictable ways. you can’t keep yourself or others safe Before you start... while using hallucinogens Safety needs Think about why you want to get high to be a main priority. It’s best not to use hallucinogens as a way of you’re using hallucinogens too often avoiding or coping with problems. It’s best not to use drugs as your main way of Know your dealer It’s best to choose someone having fun or handling boredom, unhappiness you feel safe with and who knows about the drugs or stress in your life. they sell. you’re concerned about people finding Find a buddy (who won’t be tripping) Using out about your use of hallucinogens alone can mean coping by yourself if you get injured Having and maintaining good relationships with or have a bad trip. your family and friends is more important. Stay away from the steering wheel Your Plan your trip Choose a safe, peaceful place to judgment and coordination may be greatly impaired. hang out, knowing that most trips last 8-12 hours. Talk to your friend about things you could do if you have a bad trip.